Voices from the Edge on 01/27/11

The man who talked with terrorists: an interview with journalist Reese Erlich

The man who talked with terrorists: an interview with journalist Reese Erlich

Ten years after George Bush launched his War on Terror, what most Americans know about our "enemies" in this war is what the Pentagon and State Department has told them. Veteran journalist Reese Erlich thought it worth actually talking to people we've vilified as terrorists - people like Hamas leader Khaled Meshal or Hezbollah's Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Fadlallah - to learn their actions and motives. The result is Conversations with Terrorists: Middle East Leaders on Politics, Violence and Empire, a collection of personal stories and first-hand interviews that provides what Daniel Ellsberg calls "a must read for anyone who wants to understand the phony War on Terror."

Jo Ann and Dave talk with Erlich about his latest analysis of American involvement in this troubled region and what needs to be done to change a policy of U.S. intervention that fuels terrorism rather than ends it. Erlich is also the author of Dateline Havana, The Iran Agenda and Target Iraq, as well as producer of the radio documentary, The Struggle for Iran.

This Thursday's special program is part of the kickoff of KBOO's winter membership drive. Please support Voices from the Edge by becoming a KBOO member or renewing if already a member. Your contributions make it possible for us to bring you on air and online programs like today's interview with Reese Erlich. Become a member or renew your membership by calling 503-231-8032 or online by clicking the tip jar at kboo.fm.Jo Ann Bowman is a former state legislator, former executive director of Oregon Action, and a long-time leader in the struggle for racial and economic justice. Dave Mazza is a freelance journalist and former editor of The Portland Alliance who has covered and been involved in Portland's civil rights, peace, labor and environmental movements for 20 years.

Join Jo Ann and Dave every Thursday as they bring you guests and discussion of issues important to you. Support programming like Voices from the Edge by becoming a member of KBOO today.